Germany in Bahrain - October 2023

Banz Trading and Contracting

With and expertise acquired over 70 years of continued service, Banz Trading and Contracting is one of the oldest and most reputable trading, engineering, and contracting companies in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Our warehouses and showroom are strategically located in Sitra Industrial Area. Our Sitra facility is a one-stop facility housing an engineering workshop, pump assembly workshop, fabrication unit, covered painting booth, stores, and sales office.

Fritz Schäfer began building the first transport boxes in his laundry room in Burbach, Germany in 1935. In just two years, he would go on to found what we now know today as SSI SCHAEFER. What started in 1937 as a sheet metal production company has since become the world’s leading provider of modular warehouse and logistics systems.

Banz Trading and Contracting is proud to be the exclusive agent for SSI SCHAEFER for decades. Our shelving division offers specialized storage solutions for businesses of all sizes across various industry sectors, from custom designs to standard systems. After carefully examining each client’s needs, we design and propose systems using high-quality steel that meets international safety standards. We deliver cost-effective, durable, and well-executed storage systems making us the undisputed leader in shelving and racking services in Bahrain.

BTC has built a reputation for excellence, thanks to its highly skilled workforce and its commitment to providing its customers with the highest quality products and services.

Our trading division is renowned for its wide range of premium products from major industry manufacturers and partners from around the globe. BTC is the preferred choice of leading industrial customers and automotive service centres in Bahrain.

Our engineering division sells and services engines, transmissions, water pumps, forklifts, and generators. We serve the marine, automotive, construction, industrial, and energy sectors by providing pressure washers, portable power generators, automotive parts, and hydraulic hoses.

Our fire division is one of the leading local companies specialising in the complete design, supply, installation, and commissioning of firefighting and fire alarm systems on the island. Our personnel are trained by the manufacturers and have the skills to work with the most complex systems in accordance with both local and international standards.

Our contracting division offers professional, client-centred construction services, including general contracting, construction management, design-build, and pre-construction planning. Our commitment to outstanding project completion, exceptional customer service, and superior safety performance has made us a partner of choice in the construction industry.

As the agent for SSI SCHAEFER in Bahrain, BTC offer a wide range of benefits, including:

• Access to the latest racking and storage technology

• Expert advice from our team of experienced engineers

• Competitive prices on all SSI Schaefer products

• Prompt delivery and installation

We are committed to providing our customers with the best possible racking and storage solutions. If you are looking for a high-quality, durable, and innovative racking system, then contact Banz Trading and Contracting today. We will be happy to help you find the perfect solution for your needs.

Building 966, Road 115, Block 601, Sitra

THE TEAM

Publisher and Chairman

George F. Middleton

Editor Farah Baig

Assistant Editor

Kristian Harrison

Editorial Consultant

Ahdeya Ahmed

Print Production Manager

Sabu Sebastian

Art Director

Hatem Monem

Webmaster

Nishad Eapen

Production Manager

Muna Yousef

Staff Photographer

Subeesh Kumar N S

Administration and Finance

Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa

Distribution Team

CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar

Distributor

Al Hilal Group (Hilal Direct Services)

Media Sales Team

Media Sales Director

Anuradha Manhas anuradha@redhousemarketing.com

Digital Media Executive

Amina Syed amina@redhousemarketing.com

Media Executive

Edwin D'Souza

GERMANY IN BAHRAIN CONTENTS

Representing Germany

Bahrain This Month speaks to the German Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain, HE Clemens Hach, about his diplomatic career, his first year in the Kingdom and his plans to bolster ties between the two nations.

Masters of Motoring

Renowned for their precision, innovation and luxury, German cars have consistently set high standards in the automotive industry. We take a look at how German automakers have set the benchmark over the years.

Digital & Content Marketing Team

Digital Strategy Director

Lini Reghunath

Director of Film

Danny Sokov

Social Media Managers

Shilu Babu, Rohit Reghunath

Printing Press: Union Press, Bahrain

Published monthly by: Red House Marketing

P.O. Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain

Tel: (+973) 17 813-777

Email: info@redhousemarketing.com

www.bahrainthismonth.com

© Copyright Reserved 2005-2023

8

Advanced Aesthetic Care

Discover the advanced aesthetic treatments at German Medical Centre (GMC) including plastic surgery, body contouring, laser therapy and dermatology.

6 10

12

Northern Delights of Germany

Planning a visit to Germany? Check out these 10 locations when exploring its northern region.

The concept, content, style and design of this publication remain the exclusive property of Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. and must not be reproduced in any form whatsoever without prior written permission. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, Red House Marketing cannot accept legal responsibility for any error or omission.

• Views expressed in this magazine by journalists and writers are not necessarily those of the publishers of Bahrain This Month

Licensed by the Ministry of Information

Publication Code: TA001 ISBN 1 899 348 09 3

1 Year subscription Bahrain: BD24

Gulf and international subscriptions available on request.

Providing ‘Complete Transportation Solutions’

In 1998, AMA Motors joined hands with iconic German brands MAN Truck and Bus AG to create the initial foundation of the AMA Motors division that stands as an integral part of the AMA Group. We discover more about AMA Motors.

9 14

German-made Sustainability

We delve into Germany’s role in the sectors of sustainable technology and renewable energy – sectors that have grown to be crucial for the whole world.

The Spree river in Berlin, Germany

Bahrainthismonth.com

REPRESENTING GERMANY

Bahrain and Germany enjoy a long-standing diplomatic partnership stretching back more than 50 years. As part of our Germany in Bahrain supplement, Bahrain

This Month spoke to the German Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain, HE Clemens Hach, about his diplomatic career, his first year in the Kingdom and his plans to bolster ties between the two nations.

What are the main accomplishments you have achieved as the German Ambassador to Bahrain in the past year?

The first year is always a year of learning, of getting to know people, of listening, of trying to understand the country and the region. So, if I have succeeded in something, it’s to have gained a better understanding of this country and being in a position to better explain to my colleagues in Germany about Bahrain and hopefully correct some of the misperceptions that continue to exist in Europe.

Could you tell us about the current state of diplomatic relations between Germany Bahrain?

We have excellent relations with a strong bond between our Ministries and our respective Embassies. We have yearly political consultations and a range of high-level visitors from both sides. This year alone, Undersecretary Shaikh Abdulla Al Khalifa took part in the Munich Security Conference, our Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs took part in

the Manama Dialogue and various highlevel MPs in Bahrain for the International Parliamentary Union with very good bilateral meetings on the margins. Finally, former Prime Minister Armin Laschet was here in February in support of the normalisation of relations with the State of Israel.

How many German nationals currently reside in Bahrain? What are the key sectors they are involved in?

According to latest figures, we have around 400 Germans residing in the country. Part of them work in the Eastern Provinces of Saudi Arabia, but for those in Bahrain, there are a few in the medical sector, the hospitality sector in management positions, teaching and banking.

What are the current trade figures between Bahrain and Germany?

We have a stable trade exchange at around USD700 million, with a growing number of exports from Bahrain to Germany, especially aluminium. We are also seeing more interest on the German side in petrochemical products which will be produced by the new refinery in Sitra.

What initiatives or programmes are in place to promote cultural exchange and cooperation between the two countries?

We have approximately 200 Bahrainis studying in Germany, and we also have German courses in Bahrain organised by the Embassy that have around 400 participants a year. Of course, we pursue numerous cultural initiatives too. On October 17, we will have a German band called JinJim performing in the framework of the International Music Festival. We will also have an interesting German jazz band, Sweet Simones, performing at the Jazz Fest in November.

We’ve also had an interesting development in the sports sector, with a Bahraini agency organising a trip of Bahraini football players to train in Germany with German clubs, something that we hope will succeed and bear fruit.

Can you discuss any advancements made in the areas of education and skills

development between Germany and Bahrain in the past year?

We have had some preliminary contacts between the German Agency for Technical Cooperation and the relevant institutions in Bahrain, to better understand where Bahrain is going in terms of skills development and training, and where German experience can be useful to the Kingdom.

What steps have you taken to promote sustainability and support Bahrain’s efforts towards renewable energy during your time as the German Ambassador?

We have a very good relationship with the Supreme Council at a technical level regarding this matter. We also had a very interesting exposition and panel discussion on energy transition at the University of Bahrain earlier this year, which helped us share experience and define areas of common interest and need for action.

We also have very good cooperation at the political level, for instance with the regular participation of Bahrain in the Berlin Energy Transition Dialogue and of course in the various international forums on climate change.

How has the first year as the Ambassador for Germany to Bahrain been? What has changed since you were first appointed?

It has been a fantastic year and we have been incredibly well received. It’s been a beautiful year for me, my family and as a professional. I’m very grateful for the reception and the opportunities we have in this bilateral relationship.

It has been a year of many changes. Of course, with the second year of the Russian war of aggression on Ukraine, it is provoking huge changes in Europe. But the region is also incredibly dynamic with the reintegration of Syria into the Arab League, the thaw in relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran, and the incredibly dynamic development of the relationship of the GCC with Israel. So, a lot of interesting and challenging developments are happening, which all contribute to keep the life of a diplomat very interesting!

Have there been any challenges you have faced in your role and how have you overcome them?

I guess the main challenge is really about some of the misperceptions that there are in Europe about this region and possibly also in this region about Europe. So I guess our work is really about trying first to thoroughly understand and then to explain the realities of our countries to the respective audiences and act as an interpreter between the two worlds.

Looking forward, what are your plans and goals for the upcoming year and how do you envision strengthening ties further?

Aside from the cultural events mentioned earlier, I also have a couple of priorities that I have set myself to further develop the relationship. In the economic sector, I want to see more trade and engagement, and we will have a strong German presence in the Health Fair in December with a high-level visitor from Germany, which will be a good opportunity for the medical and health sector. We will also have a high-level delegation at the Manama Dialogue again.

One area of particular interest to me, and something I have been working on over the last year, is to increase the German participation in the Combined Maritime Force that Bahrain is hosting and that is ensuring maritime security in the Gulf and Indian Ocean. And I think we are on track to contribute additionally mainly through measures of training.

Do you have anything else to add?

I am grateful for the opportunity to say a few words about our priorities here as an embassy in Bahrain, and I’d like to extend my thanks to our friends and partners in Bahrain, in the Government and in the business community, who have supported us in our work and made us feel so welcome.

Advanced Aesthetic Care

The German Medical Centre (GMC) is a pioneer in the Kingdom due to its commitment to providing high-quality and comprehensive treatments in the fields of aesthetic medicine, plastic surgery, body contouring, laser therapy and dermatology.

The German Medical Centre understands that your aesthetics are important for confidence and peace of mind. Thus, the centre’s team guarantees world-class German medical care, specially designed to offer the highest standards, coupled with a relaxed, safe, and confidential environment. For additional convenience, the centre has two branches: the first located in Hoora, Central Manama and the other on Budaiya Highway.

Renowned for clinical excellence, GMC’s aesthetic dermatology department offers the most innovative and advanced treatments including Botox, Fillers, Chemical Peels, PRF, Mesotherapy, HIFU and Skin Boosters among many other coveted aesthetic treatments. It also offers a body contouring suite offering the latest machines to help you get rid of unwanted fat and achieve your ideal body with simplicity and ease.

You can also opt for a range of plastic surgery services at the hands of GMC’s experienced Russian plastic surgeon. This includes a suite of procedures such as facial, breast, body and reconstructive procedures. Where you can choose procedures like abdominoplasty, liposuction, augumentation, fat grafting, implants, rhinoplasty and more.

So, whether you are looking to get rid of unwanted body hair, combat signs of aging, lose stubborn body fat, attain glowing skin or even completely revamp your look, we can help you achieve your goals.

For more information or booking, call17 313-555 or follow @GMCbahrain on Instagram.

MASTERS OF MOTORING

When it comes to automotive excellence, few countries can rival the rich engineering heritage of Germany. Renowned for their precision, innovation and luxury, German cars have consistently set high standards in the automotive industry. Kristian Harrison takes a look at how German automakers have set the benchmark over the years.

Germany and motoring are two institutions which are practically inseparable. In fact, many would argue that Germany is the cradle of the modern-day car industry, with a reputation as one of the most innovative in the motoring domain. In 2022, it had the sixth-highest total motor vehicle production worldwide, with six million models made per year by a labour force of more than 850,000 people.

Germany’s story with motoring began right at the beginning. The first ever motor car in the world, aptly named the Motorwagen, was invented by German engineer Karl Benz in 1885. Appearing like a horse carriage, he developed and patented his invention, the fourstroke internal combustion engine, in 1886. Soon Benz developed a better model running on gasoline and went for its commercial production in 1887. The vehicle was launched on the market a year later and was an instant hit. In 1888, Benz’s wife travelled 65 miles in the car to see her ailing father. It drew public attention and soon Benz’s car began to be sold in Germany and France.

In the early 1900s, several German marques came into existence. While Benz Sons dominated the market, Opel produced its first German car in 1906 and became the first German manufacturer maker to set up a mass production assembly line. In 1935, Opel was the first company to cross 100,000 vehicle productions in a year.

In 1937, a new state-owned automobile company created affordable yet speedy motors connected by autobahns across Germany. Its name? ‘Volkswagen’ – or ‘The People’s Car’ –and specifically the iconic Beetle, which still to this day is the second highest-selling car of

all time. These days, the wider Volkswagen Group is now the world’s largest automaker accounting for 40 percent of all vehicles sold.

Whenever the phrase ‘luxury cars’ is uttered, it’s almost impossible to not think of the titans of Germanic engineering. The likes of BMW, Mercedes, Audi and Porsche immediately spring to mind.

Audi, established in 1910, became the first German car company to exclusively focus on vehicles with powerful engines. Its earliest models Sport-Phaeton and Type B and subsequent six-cylinder models had more powerful engines than their contemporaries. BMW originally began as a company making engines for aircrafts. Indeed, the company’s famous blue-and-white logo actually represents a spinning propeller.

It was only after World War I that it pivoted into automobile production, reverting back to constructing engines during the Second World

War, before again reinventing itself and entering the car market in 1959, focusing on its ultraluxury sedans and the sports car segment.

Furthermore, Germany also has a storied history with racing. Audi has achieved great success in endurance racing as manufacturers at the Le Mans 24 Hours and as far as individual talent goes, Michael Schumacher, Sebastian Vettel and Nico Rosberg’s 12 combined Formula One world championships.

Above all, German cars are renowned for their efficiency and resilience. A stereotype it may be, but with cutting-edge technology, exceptional reliability and a national mentality that demands quality, it’s a deserved one.

PROVIDING ‘COMPLETE TRANSPORTATION SOLUTIONS’

In 1998, AMA Motors joined hands with iconic German brands MAN Truck and Bus AG to create the initial foundation of the AMA Motors division that stands as an integral part of the AMA Group. To this day, it provides transport solutions for a multitude of companies and industries in the Kingdom.

AMA Motors continues to establish partnerships with leading global manufacturers like Case New Holland Earth Moving, ZF Driveline Technology, Liebherr Earth Moving, Atlas Cranes, Kobelco Excavators, HELI Forklifts, BOMAG and Generac Tower Lights. This select group of industry leaders helps AMA Motors achieve its core business idea of providing ‘Complete Transportation Solutions’ for companies engaged in a variety of fields. AMA Motors are also partners of the Bahrain Public Transport Company which operates the iconic red buses on the island.

Germany has earned a stellar reputation for its prowess in crafting specialised and durable vehicles and heavy industrial machinery. This reputation is not merely legendary; it’s a testament to Germany’s commitment to engineering excellence. In Bahrain, AMA Motors takes immense pride in serving as the proud ambassadors of several esteemed German brands known for their global recognition and unwavering quality.

MAN Trucks are known for their robustness and reliability that transcend borders. Atlas Cranes, another gem in AMA Motors’ portfolio, stands as a symbol of precision and efficiency in heavy lifting. ZF Gearbox, a name synonymous with automotive innovation, ensures optimal performance in various applications.

With the attainment for high level of commitment toward customers and their satisfaction, the AMA Group firmly believes its aim in its mantra of: “Building relationships

embodying commitment to protecting lives in the skies. Bomag Compaction Equipment speaks volumes about German engineering’s precision and effectiveness in construction. When it comes to safeguarding against fire, Rosenbauer & Aebi Schmidt Fire Fighting Equipment is your trusted companion.

Moreover, AMA Group’s roster includes Liebherr Wheel Loaders, Concrete Mixers and Concrete Pumps, exemplifying German craftsmanship in heavy machinery. These brands collectively reflect the longevity, reliability and specialisation that Germany is celebrated for worldwide. In Bahrain, AMA Group continues to uphold the legacy of German engineering excellence, offering these brands as a testament to a commitment to quality and performance in the construction and industrial sectors.

Since its beginnings in 1954, Ahmed Mansoor Al-A’ali (AMA Group) has also evolved into one of Bahrain’s premier business groups active in Contracting, Manufacturing, Real Estate and Trading. The AMA Group serves both the public and private sector at the highest level and is widely recognised as the partner of choice.

The AMA Motors showroom, located in Sitra, is complemented by a fully equipped workshop in Riffa staffed by qualified, regularly-updated technicians. Parts outlets are conveniently located in Salmabad, Riffa and Isa Town. Visit www.amamotors.com.bh or email amamotorsales@al-aali.com.

Binz

Binz is the largest seaside resort city on the German island of Rügen. The city has steadily built a reputation for creating memorable holidays and is one of the most popular seaside resorts. It has gained its high reputation because of its long sandy beach, and crystal-clear waters which make it a perfect place to relax, unwind and sunbathe.

Kiel

Kiel is the city to be in if you prefer spending your vacation scouring natural beauty. You can explore beautiful beaches and castles built during the ancient times on leisurely walks. Alternatively, you can witness boats passing by on the busiest artificial waterway in the world or even be a part of the boat ride and experience a different side to the city. If you love life out on the water, plan your trip around the annual Kiel week which is the largest sailing event in the world, and gives tourists a beautiful experience of the city’s atmosphere and cultural variety.

NORTHERN DELIGHTS OF GERMANY

Planning a visit to Germany? Drum up the excitement and explore the north for a change! Edwin D’Souza shares his top ten locations when exploring the northern region of Germany.

Wismar

Wismar being a small and quaint city located on the Baltic Sea Coast in northern Germany presents itself as an ideal destination for tourists. Despite its smaller size of 41.36 km², it is known for its history, culture and natural beauty. The most phenomenal aspect of this quaint destination is its Gothic architecture which attracts visitors for its uniquely ancient vibe – a sharp contrast to modern day aesthetics. Wismar is home to the stunning St. Mary’s Church and the Wassertor Gate. Its natural beauty, museums like the Phantechnikum museum make it a must-visit destination.

Lübeck

This is for everyone with a specific love for visiting and exploring medieval towns. Being surrounded by historic buildings and cobblestone streets, this city was once the capital of the Hanseatic League. The most highly recommended site to visit in the area is Holstentor which is a giant brick gate that was built in the 15th century. It is known to be a great spot for Instagram-worthy pictures. Besides, one can only imagine the fascinating feeling of entering a town through a giant brick gate!

Berlin

When people speak of Germany and its nightlife, the first state that comes to mind is Berlin. Being Germany’s most populous city, it possesses the country’s most definitive museums (170 of them to be specific!), dining venues, art and above all memorable nightlife. Despite its city life, Berlin is also famed for its cultural highlights like the Museum Island located in the historic heart of Berlin. If you love a bit of sightseeing you must visit the Brandenburg Gate, which was built in 1791 and remains one of Berlin’s signature attractions, or the Berlin Television Tower which is known to locals as Fernsehturm and stands at 368m in height.

Insel Poel

A perfect island for those on the hunt for a photogenic location, Insel Poel allows you to enjoy a spectacular view given that it’s one of the most picturesque locations in north Germany. It is known for its popular attraction, The Kirchdorf, a Village with an extravagant harbour surrounded by historic buildings. The local shops and the restaurants give tourists the true feel of Germany’s roots. The Charming Villages like Timmendor, with calming sandy beaches makes it a must-visit spot in the off season.

Hiddensee

This charming island, located just 26.9km ride away from Stralsund, is known for being an immaculate natural attraction with beaches extending for miles and luxuriant forests making it the perfect destination for an outdoor trip. One of the most famous tourist attractions of the Island is the Leuchtturm Dornbusch an ancient lighthouse that provides a breath-taking view of the island and its scenery. Make note of this destination if you’re in need of a perfect escape from the busy city life.

Hamburg

Without a doubt, Hamburg is a must-visit when in Germany. It is a vibrant city with a fantastic blend of history, modernity and cultural backgrounds. Visitors get the opportunity to explore some of the best museums, historical landmarks like the St. Nikolai Main Church as well as the galleries. It is a city well known for its diversity expressed in historic and modern forms.

Müritz National Park

Nestled in north-eastern Germany is one of the most exciting outdoor experiences known to visitors, the Müritz National Park, which boasts 130 lakes. Being home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region it also holds the largest and most stunning lake in Germany known as Lake Müritz. Visitors get the opportunity to rent a boat and explore the lake on their own or go on a guided tour that educates them on the destination’s flora and fauna.

Bremen

Bremen is a renowned port city situated in northwest Germany. What really brings the city to life is the olden days charm and modernised surrounding. It also has one of the most famous landmarks known as the ‘Bremen Town Musician Statue’, that depicts a donkey, a dog, a cat and a rooster stacked on top of each other. The Kunsthalle Museum and the Bremen Museum are the best places for visitors who love to get in touch with the cultural history of a city.

GERMAN-MADE SUSTAINABILITY

Germany is home to one of the most advanced environmental technology markets worldwide, with new legislation creating new opportunities for investment. With a global trade share of 14 percent in 2020, German GreenTech products are especially sought after.

In 2016, the markets for environmentallyfriendly energy generation, energy efficiency, resource efficiency, sustainable mobility, sustainable water management, waste management and recycling accounted for 15 percent of German GDP. This is expected to increase to 19 percent by 2025.

Growing Markets: Water and Recycling

The circular economy and the sustainable water industry are expected to experience annual growth of more than five percent and six percent respectively – reaching a joint market volume of EUR110 billion by 2030. Within the sustainable water industry, water efficiency – with expected annual growth rates of almost 40 percent until 2030 –represents the segment with the highest growth. With an estimated annual increase of almost 15 percent for the period 2016 to 2025, the market for recycling technologies offers the fastest-growing opportunities in the circular economy and waste management markets.

Germany has been promoting renewable energies since the 1990s. The Energy Transition is leading to electricity predominantly coming from regenerative sources as Climate Protection is a top priority for Germany.

A future in which nature and the climate are protected, fewer people suffer from hardship and social cohesion is maintained – these and others are the objectives being pursued by German Government through its Sustainable Development Strategy, whereby the focus transcends national borders.

Rapid action is required, as the international community has set itself a deadline. In fact, the Federal Government passed a Climate Protection Act to this end in 2019, which was amended in 2021; according to this: “Germany is to achieve greenhouse gas neutrality by 2045.”

In electricity production, Germany aims to raise the share of renewables to more than 80 percent in 2050, while completely phasing out electricity production from nuclear power plants and charcoal plants. Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions would be cut by at least 80 percent by 2050.

The level of ambition of the Federal government for the ‘Energiewende’ (Energy Transition) has dramatically increased with the new coalition elected in 2021, the share of renewables to be reached in the power

mix by 2030 being set at 80 percent (against 47 percent in 2022). Germany has set an economy-wide emissions reduction target of at least 65 percent by 2030 and at least 88 percent by 2040, compared to 1990 levels. The country aims to reach climate neutrality by 2045 (five years earlier than the EU target) and achieve negative greenhouse gas emissions after 2050.

As a sample what all is possible is the Volkswagen city of Wolfsburg which has again topped the rankings in a recent survey of Germany’s most sustainable cities, based on a mixture of ecological, social and economic criteria.

Important challenges remain, however: waste disposal, pollution from the agriculture and transport sectors, to cite a few priorities at national level; and regional pollution and climate change at international level.

Another great sample supporting Zero Emission by 2045 is the DGNB (Deutsche Gesellschaft fuer Nachhaltiges Bauen = German Sustainable Building Council) which is a non-profit participatory association and Europe’s largest network for sustainable building: Founded in 2007 and is now the number two worldwide, with more than 2,000 member organisations.

Initiatives in all sectors and level are striving together to achieve the ambitious goal of the German Government to reach Net Zero by 2045.

Germany has long been known for its visionary developments in the fields of technology and automation. However, the nation is a leader in other fields that have grown to be crucial for the whole worldsustainable technology and renewable energy.